THE SUM OF OUR GOSPEL

"CHRIST DIED FOR THE UNGODLY." This is the sum and substance of our gospel and is the great article of faith. WHO DIED? Christ the only-begotten, well beloved Son of God in human nature (Rom. 8:34; Matt. 3:16-17). HOW DID HE DIE? A death of shame, under the wrath and judgment of God (Phil. 2:8). WHY DID HE DIE? He died for, in the stead of, and as a substitute for all God's elect in order that God might be just and justifier (Rom. 3:24-26). FOR WHOM DID HE DIE? "For the ungodly," not for righteous men, nor religious men, nor deserving men, but for those who are ungodly in nature and practice (Eph. 2:1-5). WHEN DID HE DIE FOR US? When we were without strength to obey Him or to keep His law, and without ability to help ourselves. We were in bondage to law and to sin and unable to change our condition (Jer. 13:23). He died for us "in due time," at the time appointed by the Father (Gal. 4:2-5; I Tim. 2:5-6). This is the greatest single proof of love. to give one's life for the object of that love (I Jn. 4: 10; Jn. 15:12-13) .